Estenijät

Estenijät, also known as Estonian Jews, are a community of Jewish people who have lived in Estonia for centuries. The history of Estonian Jews dates back to the 18th century, with the first Jewish settlers arriving in the country during the reign of Catherine the Great. The majority of Estonian Jews were Ashkenazi, with a smaller number of Sephardic Jews also present. The community reached its peak in the early 20th century, with around 10,000 Jews living in Estonia, making up about 2% of the total population.

The Jewish community in Estonia was primarily centered in the capital city of Tallinn, where they established synagogues, schools, and cultural institutions. They also had a significant presence in other major cities such as Tartu and Narva. The community played an important role in the cultural and intellectual life of Estonia, contributing to fields such as literature, music, and science.

However, the Jewish community in Estonia faced significant challenges and persecution throughout its history. During World War II, the vast majority of Estonian Jews were deported to Nazi concentration camps, where many perished. After the war, the remaining Jewish population was either expelled or fled to other countries, leaving Estonia with a small Jewish community that continues to this day.

Today, the Estonian Jewish community is small but active, with a synagogue and a cultural center in Tallinn. The community maintains a strong connection to its historical roots and continues to preserve Jewish culture and traditions. It also plays an important role in promoting Jewish-Estonian relations and cultural exchange.